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Editor in Chief:
Joan Caruso
Writer:
Catherine Carlozzi
Designer:
Roberta Martin
If you have questions or
comments on this
month's issue, send your
feedback to: roberta.martin@ayers.com
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Successful Landings
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The quest to bring work and life into balance is an increasingly important issue for job seekers. As we have explored in past articles an increasing number of mid- to senior-level candidates are pursuing alternatives to corporate jobs and reinventing their way into satisfying new careers that provide work-life balance. The following case studies provide a cross section of what Ayers' consultants are seeing.
Case One – A senior financial executive in his early fifties was eligible for an early retirement package from his employer: a major global entertainment firm in the midst of restructuring. Given the firm's new direction, he opted to take the package. Working with his Ayers' consultant, he developed an excellent campaign strategy and was actively tapping his network. A number of firms expressed interest. But as the candidate was getting closer to making a decision about which opportunities to pursue, he began to rethink his objectives.
After meeting with an Ayers' Certified Financial Planner to evaluate his overall net worth and retirement assets, the candidate decided he could afford to open a totally new chapter in his career and life. He is in the process of partnering to buy a restaurant/bar that will focus on Korean food, a strength in his wife's side of the family. The objective is to develop a business that provides more control over work-life balance and involves his wife as part of the management team. The former financial executive is also considering working as a consultant on a part-time basis to supplement his income during the start-up phase of his new business. Given the likely need for building renovations, the opening will require a long lead time.
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Case Two – After an extended career in trading metal futures, the candidate—who is in his 40s—thought it was time for a career change. From in-depth conversations with his Ayers' consultant and a thorough self-assessment, it became clear that the former trader wanted to transform his strong interest in animals into a business. Beyond something that would allow him to indulge his passion for pets, the candidate was looking for more independence, control—and fun. He met with the Ayers' franchise expert and identified several business opportunities that met his requirements. After investigating them carefully over several months, he settled on a mobile pet-grooming business. Having moved from metal futures to fur, the candidate is enjoying his new business and the new lifestyle made possible by his flexible work schedule.
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Case Three – A Technology Manager from a financial services firm conducted a focused job search, staying close to his discipline. Working closely with his Ayers' consultant and making effective use of his network, he received an excellent job offer. As he was getting close to the starting date, the thirty-something candidate developed a health problem that landed him in the hospital. Accustomed to a 24/7 work mentality and a long commute, he suddenly realized that what really mattered to him was spending more time with his family and seeing his young children grow up.
Shifting his priorities, the candidate decided not to start his corporate position. Instead, he met with an Ayers' franchise consultant to identify opportunities that would allow him to work closer to home. Ultimately, he invested in a tutoring franchise that uses part-time teachers and a strong technology platform to supplement the learning process. The candidate is very excited about this business, which leverages his technology background while providing more flexibility and control as he expands his career in a new direction. |
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| Candidates' names are withheld to respect their privacy. To arrange to speak with any of these candidates regarding their career-change experiences, contact Doug O'Connor at doug.oconnor@ayers.com. |
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